Illustration of the Sutra on the Descent of Maitreya

KOREA; Goryeo dynasty

An inscription at the bottom of this artwork states that it was painted by the Korean monk Hoejeon in 1350 during the Goryeo dynasty. It depicts two scenes described in the Sutra on the Descent of Maitreya.
In the center of the painting, Maitreya is shown seated between Lotus Grove Bodhisattva and Great Wonderful Appearance Bodhisattva. The three figures sit with their legs pendent and their feet resting upon lotus pedestals. Maitreya, towering above the smaller Bodhisattvas, wears a red monastic robe decorated with circular patterns. A trail of smoke rises from Maitreya’s usnisa and extends into the top corners. The two Bodhisattvas wear ornate robes, headdresses, and ornaments.
The triad is surrounded by Brahma, Sakra, the Four Heavenly Kings, and the Ten Great Disciples. Above Maitreya, there are blossoming trees and a canopy. The Buddhas of the Ten Directions and heavenly musicians sit on clouds in the upper register. The lower register is a symbolic depiction of Ketumati, where Maitreya Buddha will be born, and scenes of farmers making a harvest.
This painting is a rare portrayal of the Maitreya Buddha triad seated with legs pendent. The choice of colors and techniques used are styled after traditional Goryeo Buddhist paintings.